Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Lactulose Solution

Lactulose Solution: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Lactulose Solution?

Lactulose Solution is a commonly used laxative in adults to induce stools in the setting of chronic constipation. Lactulose Solution is available as an oral solution taken two-three times a day. The dose may be adjusted to achieve the target of producing soft stools twice or thrice a day. Lactulose Solution is also available as a rectal solution.

What are the uses of Lactulose Solution?

The main use of Lactulose Solution is to treat chronic constipation in adults. The drug is given as an oral solution. Lactulose is actually man-made sugar; its intake increases the sugar build-up in the intestines, pulling water into the lumen, making it easier for feces to move out. Lactulose Solution reduces ammonia levels in the body by increasing the excretion of ammonia. So, it can also be used to treat brain problems because of liver diseases (encephalopathy).

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    What are the side effects of Lactulose Solution?

    Lactulose Solution generally has less serious side effects that may include nausea, cramps, bloating, and belching. However, in certain people, the oral solution can show serious side effects such as diarrhea and vomiting. These side effects can lead to severe water loss from the body, which can result in fainting and weakness due to dehydration. Immediate medical attention is required in this case. Contact our medical experts and get help in the treatment of constipation.

    What is Lactulose Solution

    Uses of Lactulose Solution

    Side effects of Lactulose Solution

    References

    1. Lactulose Solution for Chronic Constipation: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions, Warnings (rxlist.com)
    2. Lactulose, Oral Solution (healthline.com)
    3. Lactulose Uses, Side Effects & Warnings – Drugs.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Lactulose Solution

    In oral preparation, lactulose powder is mixed with water to make a solution. The solution is then consumed 2-3 times a day, depending on the doses adjusted by the physician. The usual adult dose is 2-3 tablespoons which contain about 20-30g of Lactulose. Get help from our experts to better schedule your Lactulose doses.

    Lactulose Solution usually produces a bowel movement within 24-48 hours of consumption. Three or four daily doses of Lactulose Solution are scheduled in such a way that it produces soft stools at least twice a day. Do not try to overdose on the solution if you do not get relief instantly.

    Lactulose Solution breaks down into the intestines as sugar and attracts water towards itself into the intestinal lumen. Excess water in the intestines creates a smooth passage for the feces to pass through. Therefore, Lactulose Solution acts as a laxative to generate soft stools in patients with chronic constipation.

    Depending on the dosing schedule of Lactulose Solution, a typical dose administered twice daily is usually set 10-12 hours apart, with one dose in the morning and the other in the night. Lactulose solution can also be taken with or without food. Contact our medical experts to dose your solution properly.

    No. Generally, Lactulose Solution is used for the treatment of chronic constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. The medicine has no role in the treatment of cold or cough. It is not advisable to take Lactulose Solution without a doctor’s advice as it can cause severe dehydration and allergic reactions. To know more, contact our experts.

    Yes, Lactulose Solution is a laxative. It is a synthetically designed sugar. Its consumption increases sugar build-up in the intestinal lumen, which osmotically attracts more water molecules in the intestine. The subsequent fluid build-up makes a smooth passage for stools. This is why Lactulose solution is used in the treatment of chronic constipation.

    While treating chronic constipation, it may take up to 24-48 hours for the first dose of Lactulose Solution to work. When Lactulose Solution is taken for the treatment of portosystemic encephalopathy, it may be dosed in such a way so as to generate 2-3 soft stools per day to eliminate toxic ammonium build-up in the body.

    Yes. Lactulose Solution is completely safe to be administered while breastfeeding as it does not have any harmful effects on the infant. The medicine can also be taken during pregnancy. Constipation has been a general problem among pregnant and breastfeeding women. Thus, Lactulose can prove helpful in this case.

    Lactulose Solution and alcohol do not interact with each other in the body so it is completely safe to consume alcohol with Lactulose Solution. That being said, alcohol should always be taken in regulated amounts. Refrain from using any alcohol if you have any kind of liver disease. To get more insights, contact our medical experts.

    Yes. In studies, it has been proven that Lactulose Solution can provide relief from the impacted stool. In fact, in children, it has proven to be more effective than other medicines such as PEG. To get more help about the use of laxatives, get in touch with our medical experts.